By Ndeye Thioune (YES 2017-2018 Senegal, hosted by CCI in Chesterfield, VA)

I've been in the U.S. for about 3 months now and I already know I'll never forget this experience because it has completely changed my life. I'm out of my comfort zone every day. At first, it was really hard to adapt and talk to people. However, you don't know how you'll react to a situation unless you face it. But I don't regret anything about this exchange. Being an exchange student is one of the biggest honors I've ever received. I am learning about people from all around the world. I'm also learning a lot about myself, which is the greatest part of this experience. The friends I've met, the American family I live with, and the things I've tried all make this adventure unbelievable. I still have more to do, more to learn, and more to discover this year. All I have to do is believe in myself, believe my potential, trust in people, be positive, open my heart, and never give up.